Terms of Service

Last updated October 27, 2025

By using my First Mate Cruise Booking Services and/or my Custom Travel Planning Services, you agree to the following terms:

1. First Mate Cruise Booking Services (No Fees)

As a First Mate with Virgin Voyages, I provide cruise booking services at no additional cost to you. This includes:

Cabin selection assistance*
Important information and reminders via email
Up to two (2) scheduled price drop checks at key dates based on your cruise departure; additional price checks upon request*
Travel insurance quotes and booking (third party providers, not Virgin Voyages)
Support for all things Virgin Voyages before, during, and after your cruise via email and scheduled phone calls.
RockStars & Mega RockStars: done-for-you dining reservations
Formal Groups of 8+ cabins: coordination of (1) dinner included in group benefits

* Cabin selections and repricing is not applicable to non-refundable rates (Base Fare and Lock-it-in rates).

While I work for you and not Virgin Voyages, you are still bound by Virgin Voyages’ policies and contracts, including:

2. Custom Travel Planning Services (Fee-Based)

For clients who want custom travel planning (pre-/post-cruise extensions, land-based vacations, etc.), a planning fee may apply.

This fee is based on:

Complexity of the itinerary/request
Number of travelers
Length of travel

2.1 Custom Travel Planning Inclusions

Premium Economy, Business, and First Class flight booking
Hotels at any destination (not just port destinations), no minimum nightly rate
Private transfers for individuals, couples, and groups
Private and small group tours and non-cruise line excursions
Tickets to attractions, shows, and events
Dining reservations on and off the ship
On-trip management and support for all booked components

2.2 Fees & Booking Window

Minimum Planning Fee: $350
Advance Booking Requirement: Custom travel planning must be requested at least 4 months (120 days) before the trip start date. I do not accept custom travel requests within 4 months of departure.
Final Bookings Deadline: Client must decide and approve all travel components no later than 90 days prior to departure. I am not able to book tours, transfers, flights, hotels, etc within 90 days of the trip start date to ensure quality of service.
Non-Refundable Fees: Once I present a preliminary proposal itinerary, the planning fee is non-refundable. However, if you cancel before I start any work, I will refund the fee.

2.3 Booking & Responsibilities

Your custom travel plan includes:

Research & recommendations
Options and price quotes
A detailed itinerary ready to book

You are never obligated to book anything from the custom itinerary I prepare.

If I book the custom itinerary it for you:

I will confirm all reservations and ensure everything runs smoothly while you travel.
You are still subject to each supplier’s policies (cancellation, refunds, etc.).

If you book the itinerary yourself:

You are responsible for confirming bookings, understanding supplier policies, and ensuring everything is in place during the trip.

All booking payments are made directly to the supplier(s) unless otherwise specified in the itinerary. Client will be required to provide a credit card (via secure link) for agency to make payments on approved bookings.

2.4 Communication & Timeliness

To ensure smooth planning, you must:

Provide necessary information promptly
Review and respond to proposals in a timely manner
Make decisions within reasonable timeframes
Approve and confirm with payment all elements of the trip before 60 days from departure.

If you fail to provide feedback after receiving the initial proposal, the planning fee remains non-refundable.